Everyone is doing a top 10 list this time of year, so I’m bucking the trend and sharing my 5 favorite, can’t live without, must have items from the last year. These are the things I decided I will continue to buy as long as they’re available because I love them so much that they’ve become an instinctive part of my routine. Here they are, in no particular order of preference:

1)Aquolina Pink Sugar fragrance. This stuff makes me feel so happy and cozy that I rarely start a day without it, whether I’m going to work, headed out running errands, or just staying in and cleaning house. My kids are always telling me I smell delicious and my significant other tends to agree. Another perk about this fragrance is that it is available just about anywhere I go, from Sephora to Ulta to Nordstrom. I think the simple fragrances of caramel and cotton candy capture our inner child, while the more complex bergamot, musk, and fig leaves entice our mature palates. Ive always enjoyed oriental fragrances, and I think this is oriental with a dash of fun. (more…)

It’s the end of a long day here in Utah and Whew! doesn’t just the title of this post contain wonderful possibilities?!  Who would not benefit from a little less stress in their life?  Sign me up pronto.

A few weeks ago, I was very fortunate to receive a most precious and beautiful glass vial filled with a product from Drops of Nature labeled the Renew Elixir. 

Developed by Drops of Nature, Renew is the modern elixir formed from a unique synergistic blend of 100% pure plant and essential oils. Sourced from the four corners of the earth and chosen for their notable ability to help brighten the spirit, lift the mood, relieve symptoms associated with PMS, menopause and hormonal imbalance.

This powerful blend of Sweet Orange, Lavender, Peppermint, Clary Sage, Bergamot and Pomegranate Seed Oil counteracts the effects of sunshine deprivation providing a grounding effect that acts to synchronize and balance the body, mind & soul. The prefect stress reliever for today’s world. (more…)

Perfume. I love the thought of wearing a fragrance, one that captures my personality. Unfortunately, many perfumes cause me to feel light-headed and make my sinuses throb. Have you ever passed a woman, or man who’s scent is so strong that it physically assaults you? Have you ever been trapped in an elevator with such a person? I think it was “Poison” by Christian Dior that was so popular in the 90’s and was being constantly abused. Back in the 80’s while I was in middle school, the boys were all swimming in “Polo” by Ralph Lauren with its strong deep wood pine musky scent. I swear a fog of Polo cologne swirled above the school cafeteria where we were assembled. Ahh, memories.

I prefer very natural, delicate and floral scents, if any at all. That is why Herbaria soaps and many of the naturally curly haircare lines became my favorite body and haircare products. They all use natural and delicate fragrances like lemongrass, lavender, herbs and florals that do not overwhelm me.

My sensitive nose adores the Fresh line of Fragrances. They have put together some of the most delicious scents, one of which has become my favorite for summer, Cannabis Rose. If you are a floral fragrance lover, and adore the scent of a freshly picked rose, this scent is for you. Cannabis aka Marijuana, is in the title and is listed as Cannabis Accord in the ingredient list. According to ConnieTalk, “The term ‘accord’ in reference to fragrances refers to a blend of scents that are combined to invoke the sense of a specific scent. For the Fresh Cannabis Rose the accord utilizes the creamy sandalwood, sensual patchouli, and frankincense to create the scent of the cannabis plant.”

Personally, I do not detect the smell of pot in this fragrance, but whatever the case, it is a beautiful scent. Fresh combines these notes together to make an ultra-sensual scent for summer.

The Fresh Cannabis Rose Eau de Parfum retails for $75.00 on the Fresh website.

This week a glorious “package of love” arrived from Tammy at Hard Candy. The girls and I anxiously opened our box to find 2 full size bottles of Hard Candy’s Eau de Parfume Spray. The packaging is beyond cool, a metallic pink box with very beautiful floral inspired graphics. Hard Candy’s fragrance is described as: